Published 9:09 am, Tuesday, February 9, 2016

Sen. Bob Duff said Tuesday that allowing customers to buy electric cars without leaving the state benefits consumers and Connecticut's economy.

The Norwalk Democrat appeared at a news conference with Tesla representatives, who last year said they planned to resume efforts to pass legislation allowing them to open showrooms in Connecticut and sell vehicles directly to consumers. State law currently prevents manufacturers from selling directly to consumers.

Duff's bill mirrors last year's effort and is not limited to Tesla. It would allow electric car companies without a physical presence to open up to three dealerships.